Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)
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What is it for?
Treatment to reset the overactive pain centres in the brain to normal
Treatment overview
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive method of stimulating nerves / tissue in the brain using magnetic fields. The stimulation can target areas of the brain which have been shown to have altered activity, and help restore these areas back to a healthy function. It has been proven to be a safe and effective form of neuromodulation for fibromyalgia.
The London Clinic is the only centre in the UK to use rTMS in the treatment of chronic pain, and is a leading centre for this innovative treatment.
Conditions rTMS treats:
Chronic widespread neuropathic pain/fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition which affects up to 5% of the world population and causes widespread, chronic pain, fatigue, brain fog and sleep disturbance. It can affect anyone, but the prevalence in women is much higher than men, and is severely debilitating in the majority of cases.
rTMS is suitable for patients who fulfil the ACR (American College of Rheumatology) criteria for fibromyalgia. This can be discussed with our team of expert Rheumatologists.
Pain related to joint hypermobility syndrome
Joint hypermobility syndromes, including hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS)/ hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) are a group of heritable, non-auto immune connective tissue disorders. These can be asymptomatic, but in some cases, they can cause a wide-ranging set of symptoms, including pain for which this treatment may be beneficial.
How is it performed and what is involved?
The treatment will take place in a calm and comfortable environment, designed with potential neurodivergent sensory needs in mind. No clothing needs to be removed and the procedure does not require patients to be enclosed within a machine. Patients will lie on the treatment bed in a relaxed position, a small magnet will then be placed close to the right side of the head. rTMS is experienced as a gentle tapping sensation at the pace of a slow heartbeat and is completely painless.
The length of treatment sessions varies, but usually last around 20 - 30 minutes. A treatment plan typically consists of 20 sessions over 2-4 weeks. Our specialists at The London Clinic will be able to design and discuss bespoke treatment plans, which are undertaken in outpatient environment.
What are the risks?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is considered to be a safe, non-invasive treatment. However, as with any procedure, there are still some risks to consider. These vary depending on the type and frequency of the procedure, but include:
- Mild headaches
- Short-term post-treatment fatigue
Our experts at The London Clinic will perform thorough risk assessments and will discuss these with patients considering transcranial magnetic stimulation.
How effective is it?
Own data at the London Clinic, collected by Clinical Lead Dr Stephanie Kaye-Barrett, suggests that 93%of our fibromyalgia patients experienced improvements in the areas of pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety and function. RTMS has provided the first effective non-drug treatment for fibromyalgia, and has been proven to significantly improve pain and other associated symptoms.
Why choose The London Clinic
Excellence in one place
The London Clinic, in collaboration with Northwestern Medicine, operate as teams of experts with world-class resources, dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of care. Supported by the latest treatments, expert guidance, and a comfortable recovery environment in our patient rooms, you'll have everything you need to regain your best health.
Personal care, every time
Exceptional patient care is a way of life for us. We’ll be with you every step of the way, tailoring your care to your specific needs, including healthy and delicious meals designed to support your recovery. We keep our staff-to-patient ratio low, so our nurses, clinicians, therapists, and support teams can offer a personalised, quality experience.
Effortlessly simple
We work together as one to guide you through every step of your patient experience. From explaining your personal treatment plan to ensuring all details are taken care of, we make the process stress-free, so you can focus on your health. Whether it’s your first consultation or follow-up care, our teams are here to provide seamless support and the peace of mind you deserve.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
People with epilepsy or metal implants in the brain cannot be treated rTMS, and we recommend speaking with your consultant to identify other modalities for you.
Our team will identify any other exclusions which may mean rTMS is not a suitable treatment option for you, In most cases, patients are eligible and benefit from rTMS treatment.
This treatment is not suitable for the treatment of depression within The London Clinic.
RTMS is usually painless, and the most common side-effects are mild headaches and short-term post-treatment fatigue. Both of these symptoms clear quickly. The safety profile of rTMS is excellent, and it is well tolerated by the vast majority of people.